Evaluation of thrombolytic potential of three medicinal plants available in Bangladesh, as a potent source of thrombolytic compounds

Abstract

Objective: The present study is aimed to investigate <em>in vitro</em> thrombolytic activity of three Bangladeshi medicinal plants <em>Averrhoa bilimbi</em> (Oxalidiaceae), <em>Clerodendrum viscosum</em> (Verbanaceae) and <em>Drynaria quercifolia</em> (Polypodiaceae). <br/>Materials and methods: Each the plant was extracted with methanol at room temperature and the concentrated methanolic extracts (MEF) were fractionated by the modified Kupchan partitioning method to render pet-ether soluble fraction (PESF), carbon tetrachloride soluble fraction (CTSF), chloroform soluble fraction (CSF) and aqueous soluble fraction (AQSF). To observe their thrombolytic potential, a prompt and swift method was involved where streptokinase and water were used as positive and negative control, respectively. <br/>Result: Among the three plants, AQSF and PESF of <em>D. quercifolia </em>with CTSF of <em>C. viscosum </em>exhibited highest thrombolytic activity by clot lysis of 34.38%, 34.27% and 28.64%, respectively. Among other extracts <em>A. bilimbi</em>, <em>C. viscosun</em> and <em>D.quercifolia </em>showed significant percentage (%) of clot lysis compared to standard streptokinase (41.05%) while the negative control water revealed 3.31 % lysis of clot. <br/>Conclusion: From our findings it is observed that all the plants revealed remarkable thrombolytic activity. Therefore, steps should be taken to observe <em>in vivo</em> clot dissolving potential and to isolate active component(s) of these extracts.